The highly anticipated Mobile Phone Financing Scheme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications, has hit a series of unexpected setbacks, leading the federal government to withdraw the policy draft for a comprehensive reevaluation.
In response to these challenges, the government has issued directives for a meticulous reexamination of the policy by the Ministry of Law before it can be reconsidered for implementation.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of IT and Telecom had presented the Mobile Phones on Installment Policy to the federal cabinet, aiming for their crucial approval. It is reported that upon securing the federal government’s endorsement, the Ministry of IT and Telecom would be poised to release a policy directive, setting the stage for the initiation of a cell phone financing program.
Currently, the policy is undergoing a rigorous review process under the Ministry of Law’s supervision, with plans to present it to the federal cabinet in the imminent days. If granted the green light, the scheme’s launch is expected by the end of this month or in the early stages of the following month.
The overarching goal of the mobile phones on installment initiative is to empower citizens, especially those with limited financial resources, by offering them the opportunity to own mobile phones through interest-free installment plans.
One noteworthy aspect of this proposed policy is its approach to addressing defaulters who may falter in meeting their installment obligations. With approval, individuals grappling with payment issues could potentially face the disabling of their mobile phones.
This transition signals a significant shift from the conventional reliance on mobile companies for enforcement to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) taking on a pivotal role in its implementation. The Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) operated by the PTA will be instrumental in executing the blocking measures.
Throughout this process, the government remains resolutely committed to promoting accessibility and affordability within the dynamic and ever-evolving technological landscape.
